The population of aged people requiring Renal Replacement Therapy (RRT) is increasing rapidly both in Australia and worldwide. It is reported that nearly fifty percent of all patients requiring RRT are aged sixty-five years or older. The appropriateness of renal replacement therapy in the elderly is often controversial, with many health care professionals believing it is unethical to offer dialysis to elderly patients who are at a greater risk of serious complications and a diminished quality of life.

Care of the aged patient with renal dysfunction is challenging, as these patients tend to have increased co-morbidities and do not tolerate rapid changes in fluid and electrolytes, and often have an impaired response to drugs, stress, illness and changes in diet and mobility. Increased age, multiple co-morbidities and level of dependency should be considered prior to initiating dialysis, as these factors can influence survival and quality of life.

This poster will evaluate the appropriateness of RRT in the aged population by reviewing RRT options and their advantages and disadvantages. Additionally, the poster will outline specialised nursing care specific to this patient cohort.